Bab El Bhar: The Gateway to Tunisian History and Culture

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaan]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aadhira]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halik?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'injlizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid an ara alqaima, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [urid an adfaa, min fadlik]

• Help!مساعدة!
  [musaada!]
• Go away!اتركني!
  [itrkini!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itassil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [itassil bitabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [urid an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarrag]
• How much is it?كم ثمنه؟
  [kam thamanuh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khaif alsiar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alssaa?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alssaa alwahida]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [alaaashira walnisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [alssabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [aldhuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنين
  [ithnayn]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [saba'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaneya]
• 9تسعة
  [tasea]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين...؟
  [ayna...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al'anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tarini (ala alkhariita)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة القادمة؟
  [mata alhafilat alqadima?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tazkirat (ila ...)]

Bab El Bhar, translating to 'Gate of the Sea,' serves as one of the historic entrances to the medina of Tunis. Established during the 9th century, this neighborhood developed significantly under the Aghlabid dynasty, which aimed to fortify the city against maritime threats. Its strategic location along the Mediterranean coast facilitated trade and cultural exchanges, making it a vital hub in the region.

During the Ottoman period from the 16th to the 19th centuries, Bab El Bhar underwent considerable transformation. The neighborhood became a melting pot of cultures, with the Ottomans introducing new architectural styles, including the distinctive 'Dar' houses characterized by their intricate tile work and ornate facades. The iconic Bab El Bhar gate itself was renovated, symbolizing the power and prestige of Tunis during this era.

The French protectorate established in 1881 brought significant changes to Bab El Bhar. The area saw a rise in commercial activities due to the influx of European commerce and investment. The construction of new infrastructure, including the Avenue Habib Bourguiba, marked the transition of Bab El Bhar into a modern urban center, although this came with the challenges of colonial exploitation and social upheaval.

Post-independence in 1956, Bab El Bhar emerged as a center for cultural and political activities in Tunisia. The neighborhood played a pivotal role during the Tunisian Revolution of 2011, with its streets becoming a site of protests advocating for social justice and democratic reforms. Today, Bab El Bhar retains its significance as a vibrant cultural zone, combining historical heritage with contemporary life, hosting markets, cafes, and artistic events.

Efforts to preserve the historical and architectural integrity of Bab El Bhar are ongoing, reflecting a broader commitment to safeguarding Tunis's rich heritage. The neighborhood's significance has garnered attention from various cultural organizations, and it is increasingly recognized as a vital part of Tunisia’s identity, attracting both local and international tourists eager to explore its historical depths.

Bab El Bhar is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Tunis. If you are coming from the city center, you can take the Metro (Line 1) to the Bab El Bhar station. Buses and taxis are also readily available throughout the city; ensure to choose licensed taxis for safety. The main train station, Tunis Marine, is a short taxi ride away if you are arriving by train from other Tunisian cities.

Bab El Bhar is a walkable neighborhood, and many attractions are within easy reach. Public transport options include the Metro and buses, which connect you to other parts of Tunis. Taxis are plentiful, and it’s common to share rides with other passengers. For a more unique experience, consider renting a bicycle to explore the area at your own pace.

Bab El Bhar is generally safe for tourists, but like any urban area, it's wise to stay alert. Avoid poorly lit streets at night and keep your belongings secure. Areas surrounding the medina can be crowded, so be cautious of pickpockets. While violent crime is rare, stay vigilant in busy tourist spots.

In case of an emergency, dial 190 for police assistance or 190 for medical emergencies. Local hospitals and clinics are available, and pharmacies can be found throughout the neighborhood for minor health issues. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly in religious sites. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs, and if visiting mosques, cover your head and shoulders. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to the elderly and pregnant women. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Salam' or 'Bonjour'. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept offers of food graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it may be seen as rude.

To experience Bab El Bhar like a local, visit the bustling souks (markets) for a taste of authentic Tunisian culture. Engage with shopkeepers and try bargaining; it’s part of the shopping experience. Visit the local cafes to sample traditional Tunisian tea and pastries. Be sure to check local event calendars for festivals or cultural events that may be happening during your stay.